Cardinal Ribat on third Sunday of Lent: Our lives are like fig trees; we are expected to bear fruit

Goroka: The Third Sunday of Lent at North Goroka Holy Family Parish was a special Eucharist Celebration for the students and staff of the University of Goroka and Goroka Technical College, as they welcomed his Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC, who was the main celebrant. His surprise visit brought great joy and blessings to the Catholic community at both institutions.

(His Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC...Picture supplied)

In his homily, Cardinal Ribat shared on the first reading of witnessing a burning bush that was not consumed by the fire. God spoke to Moses, declaring that he was on holy ground and expecting him to come bare foot and telling him that He had heard the cries of His people, Israel.

"Moses followed God wholeheartedly and received the commandments. Similarly, we are called by God to surrender our lives to Him and to return fully to Him. We are all on Holy Ground and are invited to offer ourselves in total surrender to God".

Cardinal Ribat then reflected on the Gospel reading focusing on the fig tree, which symbolizes peace and prosperity.

"Our lives are like fig trees; we are expected to bear fruit. We must strive to follow God’s will. Our studies, too, should bear fruit, requiring us to make time and devote ourselves to our education. This life is a gift from God, and we are called to live purposely him, especially during this Lenten season, which encourages us to help one another and draw closer to God, just as Moses did. Since God granted us life, we should return it by living according to his will. We must also let go of negative attachments like jealousy, pride, and anger to allow God's ways to flourish in us".

His Eminence concluded his homily by reminding the congregation that we are all on Holy grounds, called to different vocations and encouraged everyone to live a life of commitment with God.

The students had an opportunity to meet and greet the Cardinal after mass.

We appreciate and thank God for the surprise visit and inspiring homily delivered by his Eminence John Cardinal Ribat MSC.

May God continue to bless his ministry in shepherding the Catholic faithful in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands!